I’m Thinking About Adopting A Three Legged White West Highland Terrier From The Humane Society?
Filed under Care & Training Q&As
So I went to the Humane Society yesterday and I was browsing around and met some small dogs that I was interested in. basically Chihuahuas. However, there was a dog that was in the same kennel as the chihuahua. a mixed terrier; i think it was a white West Highland Terrier Mix. anyway, I asked about the dog. He is 1 year old, got hit by a car, and lost his back leg, meaning he only has three legs now. After hearing his story, I was soooooo saddened. So now I’m home and
I’m thinking about adopting a three legged white West Highland Terrier from the Humane Society. He seemed really sweet when I came over to look at him in his kennel. I was wondering, is there anything three legged dogs can’t do? I am really serious about adopting it, but I need to know what I’m getting into first.
A little about me:1st time pet owner (never had pets before), have been doing tons of research about regular dogs (but beginning to research more about 3 legged ones), very ready to give love to a dog in need.
Related West Highland White Terrier posts:
What a big heart you must have !! You sound like you would be a perfect pet owner because you cared enough to check out a dog that many wouldn’t even think of adopting because of the injury !! Animals do very well with missing limbs and can do as much with 3 legs as they did with 4 ! I bet that you two will great together because in my book you both are SWEET !!!!! First time owner or not I know you will do a wonderful job >food ,water ,shelter , couple toys and a whole lot of love and you are set !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
my mate had a dog with 3 legs once ,he called it tripod i think ,it did just fine excepet when it ****** its leg up a tree though ,this is true .i swear!!
well if u have the time and love to put into a dog and the money then go for it…i think about any nomral person needs a dog and a good companion but i think the first time they do something wrong they should have that taken away! but i think u should go for it!
That’s very kind of you! There’s nothing wrong with a 3 legged dog! It’s good that he didn’t lose a leg due to sickness. They can do anything a normal dog can! Go for it, you’re saving a life! MERRY XMAS!
Go for it!
You won’t be sorry.
Dogs rarely even notice they have 3 legs, and shelter dogs are the best pets to have.
Really, there is absolutely no difference between dogs with all their legs and ones with just 3.
***HINT***
Shelters offer training classes and support to help you settle in with your new dog. Ask what the shelter offers and take advantage of it.
99.999% of problems people have with dogs can be corrected with training. If you run into trouble, seek a trainer.
I’ve know several people who have had 3 legged pets. They all got around fine, could do anything a 4 legged animal could, and didn’t know the difference.
Enjoy your new friend!
3 legged dogs generally get around fine. We had a 3 legged lab mix (lost one of his front legs) and he could still run, jump, catch frisbees, even swim a bit. Most 3 legged dogs I’ve known act just like normal dogs.
The only possible drawback is he might get arthritis a bit early, but that’s not as big an issue with a small dog.
First of all, kudos to you for looking into giving a homeless pet a chance. Shelter animals are amazing, they have so much love to give. =)
He shouldn’t have any trouble getting around, dogs are usually able to adjust to amputation pretty quickly. Just keep in mind that a 1 year old Westie (three legged or not, haha) is probably going to be pretty high energy. But itsounds like you’re already on the right path by doing your research. Best of luck! =)
Good for you, I know nothing about having a three-legged dog, but I do know about Westies, they are great, smart dogs. Good luck.
My friend has a three legged sheltie mix. She was also hit by a car and lost one hind leg. She keeps up with their four legged basenji just fine.
Good luck, and good for you for adopting!
=)
I watch the animal channel all the time. My favored is the ASPCA. SHOW. They show now they help anamials in need. Dogs and cats that have limes amputated. They go on to be great family pet. Never knowing the differents
As a first time pet owner, I suggest for you to start with an animal that does not have a handicap. Handicapped animals are twice the work and stress for you.